Holiday Lights
Let Minneapolis dazzle you this holiday season. This year drive-thru events, private tours and outdoor viewings are the way to get immersed in the beauty of the city as the streets transform into a holiday oasis. Check out what Minneapolis has going on to make your holiday season sparkle.
Last Updated: 10/27/23
Holiday Trolley Ride
Fridays, December 1-29, 2023
Venture into a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and holiday cheer with an enchanting "Merry & Bright Christmas Light Tour". This heartwarming experience will transport you to a world of holiday magic, all from the comfort of a cozy, festively adorned Trolley.
Winter Lights
November 16 - December 31, 2023
Stroll through the Arboretum gardens decked out in Winter Lights. Enjoy fresh air as you explore outdoor light displays, highlighting flowers, trees and the beauty of nature, on a .75-mile walking route. See the 16-foot weeping willow tree and walk through the giant apple, which pays tribute to our Horticultural Research Center’s apple research. Stop by s’mores village to warm up near a fire and buy s’mores kits to roast marshmallows. Tickets are required for all and are selling fast, so reserve yours now.
GLOW Holiday Festival
November 16 - December 31, 2023
Get up close and personal with this holiday light experience and must-see holiday attraction at St. Paul's CHS Field. GLOW features over a million lights, sElfie Plaza, Enchanted Forest, Bright Bikes, Tremendous Tree, the GLOW Spectacular, and so much more!
Magic of Lights
November 17 - December 31, 2023
Making its Twin Cities debut at Viking Lakes this Holiday season, Magic of Lights features over 2 million dazzling holiday lights. Enjoy Magic of Lights’™ classic holiday favorites including Winter Wonderland, the 12 days of Christmas, Toyland, festive Elves, and Reindeer Road from the comfort of their vehicles. In addition to the 200-foot-long Enchanting Tunnel of Lights, illuminated displays include the 32-foot-tall, animated Mattel’s Waving Christmas Barbie™, and the legendary BIGFOOT® Monster Truck. Magic of Lights is a nostalgic and festive event everyone will enjoy. Magic of Lights™ shines Monday through Thursday from 5:30PM – 9:00PM and Friday through Sunday from 5:30PM – 10:00PM. Tickets for this colorful seasonal event are on sale now and tickets are priced per vehicle.
Tree Lighting Ceremony at West 50th Street
November 25, 2023
Join the annual Holiday Tree Lighting, presented by Gateway Bank! This year's ceremony features local performers, words from Edina's Mayor Hovland, horse-drawn carriage rides, family-friendly crafts, music, and even visits from Santa!
Festive Holiday Lights Tour
Thursday - Sunday in December 2023
4:30pm, 6:00pm, 7:15pm, 8:30pm
Treat yourself to the magic of the holidays by viewing beautiful light displays on this 1 hour tour! View twinkling lights and nibble holiday treats in our warm, heated coach bus while your expert driver shows you the brightly decorated streets of the Twin Cities. You're sure to feel the spirit of the season.
Gray Lines Minnesota Holiday Lights Tour
Various weekends throughout December 2023
Ride aboard a warm and cozy deluxe motorcoach from Gray Lines Minnesota and tour the city's streets, beautifully decorated by lights. You'll have a knowledgeable tour guide providing commentary on all the fascinating holiday traditions and local lore. This is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and eexperience the quaint residential neighborhoods and glittering streets of the Twin Cities.
All Is Bright Holiday Lights Tour
Various dates throughout December 2023
Don't let this cold and crazy winter stop you from having fun, Minnesota! Let's be bold, embrace the cold and make your holidays brighter in the Twin Cities' only open-air fun bus. We have holiday lights, music, AND Santa as your chauffeur. It's a perfect outing for families. Choose your date and time slot to book the bus for your private party!
Holiday Tree Lighting & Movie Night at Union Depot
December 2, 2023
See the sparkle of the lights at this annual Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration. The event will begin at 5 pm. Enjoy live entertainment and holiday activities. At 7 pm, head outside for the official tree lighting celebration! Afterwards, stick around for the holiday movie night – featuring a classic favorite: Elf. The tree will be lit through the remainder of December on the North Plaza — the perfect back drop for family holiday photos!
